Anuradhapura & Aukana: All Inclusive Tour From Habarana

Set out on a captivating journey through Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage with the Anuradhapura & Aukana tour from Habarana. This all-inclusive experience transports you to the heart of the island’s ancient wonders, immersing you in a tapestry of sacred sites, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant local flavors. From the iconic Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi to the majestic Aukana Buddha statue, each step of this guided tour promises to leave an indelible mark on your soul. Uncover the timeless stories that have shaped this enchanting destination, as you discover why Sri Lanka’s cultural treasures continue to captivate and inspire travelers from around the world.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive one-day tour from Habarana exploring the historical sites of Anuradhapura and the Aukana Buddha statue, priced at $3,875 per person.
• Visits include the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, Ruwanweli Maha Seya, Abhayagiri Vihara, and Jetavanaramaya, with private transportation, entrance tickets, local lunch, and knowledgeable guides.
• Scenic drive through lush greenery, showcasing the region’s natural beauty, including tea plantations, fruit-bearing trees, and majestic mountains.
• Immersion in the cultural and spiritual significance of the sacred sites, such as the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi and the colossal Ruwanweli Maha Seya stupa.
• Sunset viewing of the impressive 38-foot-tall Aukana Buddha statue, carved from granite and renowned for its serene expression and perfect proportions.

Tour Overview

This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the ancient city of Anuradhapura and the impressive Aukana Buddha statue. Priced at just $3,875 per person, this all-inclusive day trip departs from Habarana and showcases the region’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Visitors will marvel at the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, Ruwanweli Maha Seya, Abhayagiri Vihara, and Jetavanaramaya. The tour also includes a delightful local lunch and an optional visit to the towering Aukana Buddha statue to witness the sunset.

With private transportation, entrance tickets, and knowledgeable guides, this tour provides a hassle-free and immersive experience. Whether you’re interested in ancient ruins, sacred sites, or stunning scenery, this tour has it all.

Itinerary Highlights

The scenic drive from Habarana to Anuradhapura transports visitors through rolling hills and lush greenery, setting the stage for a captivating exploration of the ancient kingdom‘s most iconic sites.

The tour immerses guests in the historical significance and reverence of sacred landmarks, including:

• The Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, a revered tree believed to be a sapling from the original Bodhi tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment.

• The Ruwanweli Maha Seya, a grand stupa that stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of ancient Anuradhapura.

• The Abhayagiri Vihara, a sprawling monastery complex renowned for its intricate sculptures and meditation halls.

• The Jetavanaramaya, a colossal stupa that was once the largest brick structure in the world.

• The captivating Anuradhapura Moonstone, a masterpiece of ancient stone carving.

Experience Description

The tour begins with a scenic drive from Habarana to Anuradhapura, where visitors embark on a captivating exploration of the ancient kingdom’s most iconic sites.

They’ll discover the historical significance and reverence of sacred sites like the Jetavanaramaya Stupa and Abhayagiri Monastery.

A delightful lunch featuring local delicacies, such as rice and curry, crispy hoppers, and aromatic spices, provides a flavorful respite.

The journey continues to Aukana, where the group witnesses the craftsmanship of the standing Buddha statue at sunset, a breathtaking sight that culminates the day’s adventures.

Throughout the experience, the tour immerses participants in the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of this enchanting region.

Inclusions

A comprehensive package of inclusions ensures the Anuradhapura & Aukana tour offers excellent value.

Travelers can enjoy bottled water, an air-conditioned vehicle with onboard WiFi, and private transportation throughout the journey.

The tour also includes entrance tickets to the following must-see sites:

• Aukana Rajamaha Viharaya
• Ruwanwelisaya
• Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi
• Jetavanaramaya Stupa
• Isurumuniya Temple
• Twin Baths (Kuttam Pokuna)

Plus, a delightful local lunch featuring rice and curry, crispy hoppers, and aromatic spices is provided, elevating the overall experience.

Important Information

Certain attire and conduct are expected while visiting the sacred sites on this Anuradhapura & Aukana tour. Visitors are asked to avoid short skirts, sleeveless shirts, and must remove their shoes when entering the temples. Consuming alcohol and drugs is strictly prohibited. These rules help maintain the reverence and respect for the historic and religious significance of the sites.

To ensure a smooth and meaningful experience, here are a few other important guidelines:

Item	Allowed	Not Allowed
Attire	Modest clothing	Short skirts, sleeveless shirts
Footwear	Removing shoes indoors	Wearing shoes indoors
Substances	–	Alcohol, drugs
Conduct	Respectful behavior	Touching exhibits
Photography	–	Restricted in certain areas

Adhering to these guidelines will allow you to fully learn about the cultural and spiritual ambiance of this unforgettable tour.

Scenic Drive Through Rolling Hills

Awe-inspiring vistas unfold as the tour departs Habarana, with the vehicle carving through a tapestry of rolling hills and lush greenery.

Passengers are treated to a captivating display of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty:

• Verdant tea plantations cascade down gentle slopes
• Ancient trees bearing bountiful fruit dot the landscape
• Glistening streams and rivers meander through the countryside
• Majestic mountains rise in the distance, their peaks shrouded in wispy clouds
• Quaint villages come into view, offering a glimpse of traditional life

This scenic drive sets the stage for the upcoming exploration of Anuradhapura’s renowned archaeological wonders.

Sacred Sites Exploration

The tour’s first stop is the revered Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, where pilgrims flock to pay respects to the sacred fig tree believed to have grown from a cutting of the original Bodhi tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment.

Next, the group explores the colossal Ruwanweli Maha Seya, a majestic stupa dating back to the 2nd century BC.

At Abhayagiri Vihara, they marvel at the impressive architecture and ruins that were once part of an extensive monastic complex.

The tour then visits the towering Jetavanaramaya, one of the largest brick structures in the ancient world.

Sunset Viewing at Aukana

After exploring the ancient ruins of Anuradhapura, the tour group then journeys on to the picturesque Aukana to witness the stunning sunset over the colossal standing Buddha statue.

Towering at 38 feet, the eighth-century Buddha statue is a breathtaking sight, carved from a single block of granite.

Visitors are captivated by:

• The statue’s serene expression and perfect proportions
• The intricate detailing of the Buddha’s robes and facial features
• The surrounding natural beauty, with lush greenery and a tranquil pond
• The changing hues of the sky as the sun dips below the horizon
• The sense of spiritual connection and awe experienced in this sacred place

This sunset viewing at Aukana provides a fitting conclusion to a day immersed in the rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Group Size for the Private Group Option?

The private group option allows visitors to customize their tour experience with a flexible group size. This bespoke arrangement ensures an intimate and personalized exploration of the historical sites at their own pace.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There is a dress code for the tour – visitors aren’t allowed to wear short skirts, sleeveless shirts, or shoes indoors. This helps maintain the reverence and cultural significance of the sacred sites on the itinerary.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Visit Other Sites?

The tour generally follows a set itinerary, but you can customize it to visit other sites if you’d like. The tour operator is happy to accommodate your interests and preferences to create a unique experience for you.

Are Vegetarian/Vegan Meal Options Available?

Yes, the tour offers vegetarian and vegan meal options. Guests can enjoy a delightful Sri Lankan lunch with flavorful rice and curry dishes, healthy vegetable options, and dairy-free alternatives to accommodate all dietary needs.

Do I Need to Bring Any Additional Equipment or Supplies?

You won’t need any additional equipment or supplies for this tour. The tour provides bottled water, transportation, entry tickets, and even a delicious local lunch. Just bring comfortable walking shoes and your camera to capture the stunning ancient sites.

The Sum Up

Enjoy Sri Lanka’s ancient heritage on this captivating all-inclusive tour. Wander through sacred sites, savor local flavors, and witness the breathtaking sunset at the Aukana Buddha statue – a perfect blend of cultural exploration and natural beauty. With private transportation and knowledgeable guides, this comprehensive experience promises an unforgettable journey through Sri Lanka’s rich history and stunning landscapes.